What would your clients and colleagues say is your therapist superpower?

I have two really awesome superpowers:

• I have a fantastic memory for very random details – clients are often amazed that I remember the name of that one guy that they briefly mentioned two years ago. It’s even more impressive because I’m never writing notes during sessions.
• I’m really good at making people cry (in the best way possible, I promise!) I usually tell my clients, most of whom will apologize for crying, that it’s literally my job to make you cry. So expect to cry, don’t apologize, and let it out.

What would you want someone to know about working with you?

I’m often told that therapy with me is like a warm, firm hug seamlessly interlaced with a few strong nudges – equal parts validating and challenging. Therapy with me is not good vibes only, definitely not rainbows and butterflies – it’s hard work. We’re going deep, all the way down to the roots, and we’re talking about stuff you probably don’t want to talk about; but I can promise you that I will be right there with you every step of the way. Most of my clients stay with me long term, and it’s such an honor to be able to watch them heal and grow and be alongside them as they walk through life. It’s not always fun, but it sure is rewarding when you start seeing changes in how you think, feel, and behave.

Learn more about me here: www.jenkim-mft.com

What is your specialty?

Working in the realm of relationships lights my heart on fire. I am constantly conceptualizing through a relational lens, and it’s pretty safe to say I’m obsessed with relationships. Humans are biologically hardwired for connection. We are social beings meant to live in relationship with one another. Whenever we are experiencing any personal issues or challenges, it’s worth exploring how our relationships, both past and present, have impacted us and how our issues may be manifesting in our relationships as well.

I work with both individuals and couples that have experienced or are experiencing distress in a relationship or multiple relationships. Whether it’s relationship with self, a family member, friend, coworker, or romantic partner, we dive deep to start recognizing certain patterns that may contribute to that relational distress and explore how we can change the pattern to reduce the distress and support healthy relationships.

I love working with couples struggling to work through resentments by helping them reconnect and revive their relationships. I also love working with Asian Americans struggling with intergenerational and intercultural issues by helping them explore their identity and values while still honoring both cultures.